Trypanophobia

Trypanophobia: Fear of Needles

We get these questions a lot from clients at our Broomfield, CO office: “Does Botox® Hurt?” and “Do Fillers Hurt?” These are very understandable questions. Please always share questions like this with Dr. Janowski and with our staff before your procedure. Our goal is for you to enjoy the process itself (almost) as much as you enjoy the results! If you are especially afraid of injections, or if you have any fears whatsoever, we can take extra steps to further minimize the possibility of pain. You should know too that if you do suffer from Trypanophobia (the technical term for a fear of needles), you are not alone. It is estimated 10% to 20% of the population has a debilitating fear of needles!

Needles used for Botox® are extremely small, much smaller than the needle used for a flu shot for example. That doesn’t mean it won’t hurt at all, but it means the pain will be minimized compared to an immunization or a flu shot. On request, we can ice the injection sites beforehand, which helps numb your soon-to-be-wrinkle free zones. We can also use a topical anesthetic cream which will further numb the affected area. (Also, if you are in a hurry and have no fear of needles, please let us know that too, we can also proceed without such preventive measures, and the pain is still likely to be very very minimal.)

Fillers, including Juviderm, Belotero, Radiesse and Voluma also use a very small needle. However, for fillers, more fluid is usually injected under the skin’s surface. For this reason, fillers come with Lidocaine which helps numb the injection site. Also, we can use a topical numbing cream and/or ice to further reduce the likelihood of pain and swelling.

If you are squeamish about injections, we highly recommend you let us know before your visit (remember you are not alone), start with Botox® as it’s the least invasive, and finally be sure to work with an experienced doctor! Dr. Janowski has perfected his methodology over ten years and has given literally thousands of injections. At Sonata, only Dr. Janowski performs Botox® and filler injections, so you will always get the best, most-experienced injector, and therefore, expert treatment.

Whatever you do, please don’t put off getting Botox® or fillers because of needle-related anxiety. We all deserve a more healthy and youthful appearance! The team at Sonata has the experience and care to help you overcome your fears, and become a more beautiful glowing you.

 

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